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Intense winds reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties without power and led agencies to call off more than 100 air travel services, according to regional news sources.

The winds are impacting the entire southern region and lower areas of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.

The nation's agencies have announced rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.

Locals have been advised to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and get ready for further power and communication outages.

Widespread Impact and Emergency Response

The electricity loss seems to be impacting homes predominantly in the South Island, while agencies report that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.

Domestic outlets have indicated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while power lines and trees have been brought down by the gales.

Across Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being hit by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.

Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was blown onto moving cars on a street by a intensive burst, in a event that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.

Aircraft services to and from the city have been halted due to the gusts, and certain highways and community centers are also closed.

Simultaneously local leaders have announced a state of emergency, to support disaster response efforts.

Strike Action Alongside Severe Weather

The wild winds on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.

But the extreme weather has forced them to alter various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or cancelled.

Like conditions are affecting the nearby nation, bringing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.

Officials have declared burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.